Frequently Asked Questions, Solano Campus

Who can live in campus Housing?

Undergraduate students at Cal Poly Maritime Academy are required to live on campus and participate in a meal plan unless they receive an approved exemption through the exemption request process. 

Is Housing open during academic year breaks?

Academic year housing contract details, including break periods, are outlined in the housing contract terms provided through the Housing Portal. Students should review their contract for specific information regarding break housing availability. There is an additional cost for housing during breaks. Housing is closed for winter break: Dec. 19, 2026–Jan. 24, 2027. 

How do I cancel my housing contract?

Housing contract cancellation requests must be submitted through the Housing Portal (StarRez). Students should review the housing contract and cancellation terms for applicable timelines and requirements.

How do I request an exemption to live off-campus?

The are specific reasons students can request an exemption to the requirement to live in campus housing. Learn more here.

Can I request a specific roommate?

Roommate requests are managed through the Housing Portal during the application process. Requests must be mutual and completed within the published housing application timelines.

How do I request a housing accommodation?

Students seeking housing accommodations should contact the Disability Resource Center (DRC). Approved accommodations are communicated to Housing and Residential Life for assignment consideration. 

→ Contact DeAna S. Vides, Psy.D., Disability Coordinator, at DVides@csum.edu for assistance

Are specific apartments or room configurations guaranteed?

No. Specific buildings, room types or configurations are not guaranteed. Assignments are based on availability and operational needs.

What happens if I don't participate in room selection?

If you don’t participate in the room selection or roommate groups, Residence Life will assign you a room and roommate. Our office will try our best to pair you with someone within your divisional company, major, and/or interests.

Can I request a single room?

In most circumstances, single rooms are not available before the academic year begins and residents will be assigned a double room space with a roommate.

However, occasionally space will allow for residents to obtain a single room. Single rooms are not guaranteed, and subject to availability.

What happens if my roommate moves out?

If your roommate withdraws during the academic year, you will be given the opportunity to claim the full space and pay the single room rate. If you decline, or don’t accept the buyout offer, Residence Life will include you in the consolidation process with other students who do not have a roommate.

When do students move in and move out for the academic year?

Move-in and move-out dates are communicated by Housing and Residential Life and published prior to the start and end of the academic year. Students should reference official housing communications for specific dates. 

Can I move in early?

Early move-in requests are reviewed by Housing and Residential Life and are subject to approval based on operational needs and availability. 

How do I check in and receive my keys?

Check-in instructions, locations and required identification are provided to students prior to move-in. Students must follow the outlined procedures to receive room access. 

How do I move out?

Move-out procedures, including room preparation and key return instructions, are communicated by Housing and Residential Life prior to the end of the housing contract period.

What room types and amenities are available?

Cal Poly Maritime Academy offers traditional residence hall options. Most students are assigned double occupancy rooms. Furnishings and amenities vary by building. Residence hall options include Lower Residence Hall, McAllister Residence Hall, Upper Residence Hall and Maritime North.

View room layouts, dimensions and community amenities on our Residence Halls and Apartments webpage.

Are lofts and bed risers permitted?

No. Lofted beds and risers are not permitted. Students in bunked rooms may request adjustments to their bunks through the Housing Portal, pending roommate agreement, and space.

How does the dining plan work?

All undergraduate residential students are required to participate in a resident meal plan. Dining services provide on-campus meal options to support students throughout the academic year.

→ Learn more

How do mail and packages work?

Students are assigned a campus mailing address from Cal Poly Distribution Services before school starts. The campus mailing address is not the building address. Mail sent to physical building addresses will be returned to the sender. Package pickup locations vary by community.

→ View more information

What about parking and transportation?

Parking availability is limited and managed by Transportation and Parking Services. View permit options and alternative transportation resources online.

What types of measures are taken to protect my safety?

Residence halls and apartments are secured 24/7 and supported by Resident Advisors, professional housing staff, Cal Poly Police Department, emergency phones and campus alert systems. 

How do I request maintenance or report an issue?

Non-emergency maintenance requests should be submitted through the Housing Portal. Urgent issues may be reported to Housing Services during business hours. Emergency situations should be reported to Cal Poly Police Department and the RA on-call in that order.

How are pests and wildlife concerns handled?

University Housing employs full-time custodial and maintenance staff. Residents should report pest or wildlife concerns promptly through the Housing Portal or by contacting Housing Services.